Currently, Google Home Assistant does not support customizing its wake phrases.

The default wake phrases, “Hey Google” and “OK Google,” are the only options officially available.

However, there are creative workarounds using third-party tools or integrations to simulate custom wake phrases.

Here’s how to explore alternatives and understand the limitations.

Why Google Home Doesn’t Support Custom Wake Phrases

• Standardization: Google ensures consistent performance by limiting wake phrases to predefined options.
• Voice Recognition Accuracy: Custom phrases may lead to recognition issues, especially in noisy environments.
• Security: Limiting wake phrases helps prevent unauthorized triggers.

Also Read: How to Enable Custom Wake Words for Google Home Assistant

Workarounds to Simulate Custom Wake Phrases

1. Use Tasker and AutoVoice (Android)

• What It Does: These apps let you create custom voice commands that simulate wake phrases for Google Assistant.
• Steps:
  1. Download Tasker and AutoVoice from the Google Play Store.
  2. Configure AutoVoice to recognize your custom wake phrase (e.g., “Hello Assistant”).
  3. Link the command to trigger Google Assistant.
• Limitations:
  • Works only on the device where the apps are installed.
  • Slight delay compared to native wake phrases.

2. Use a Smart Hub Like Home Assistant

• What It Does: Home Assistant, a popular smart home hub, can detect custom triggers and send commands to Google Home.
• Steps:
  1. Install Home Assistant on a compatible hub or server.
  2. Configure it to recognize custom wake phrases.
  3. Map the custom trigger to activate Google Home Assistant.
• Limitations:
  • Requires additional setup and hardware.
  • Not as seamless as Google’s native wake phrases.

3. Set Custom Phrases for Routines

• What It Does: While this doesn’t replace the wake phrase, you can use custom phrases to trigger specific routines after saying “Hey Google.”
• Steps:
  1. Open the Google Home app.
  2. Go to Routines > Add a Routine.
  3. Set a custom phrase, like “Begin my day,” to initiate specific actions.
• Limitations:
  • You still need to say “Hey Google” before the custom phrase.

Alternative Assistants with Custom Wake Phrases

If customizable wake phrases are essential, consider alternatives like:

Also Read: How to Set Gender-Specific Voices in Google Home Assistant

1. Amazon Alexa: Allows limited customization of wake words, such as “Alexa,” “Echo,” or “Computer.”
2. Mycroft AI: An open-source assistant that lets you define completely custom wake phrases.

Quick FAQs

1. Can I Change Google’s Wake Phrase to Something Else?

No, Google currently restricts wake phrases to “Hey Google” and “OK Google.”

2. Are There Plans to Add Custom Wake Phrases?

Google has not announced any plans to support custom wake phrases.

3. Do Third-Party Workarounds Affect Device Security?

Using reputable tools like Tasker and Home Assistant is generally safe, but avoid unauthorized or unverified apps.

4. Can I Use Multilingual Wake Phrases?

Google Assistant supports multiple languages, but the wake phrase remains standard across all languages.

5. What Happens If Two Devices Respond to the Wake Phrase?

Google’s devices use a proximity algorithm to ensure only the closest device responds.

Also Read: Can Google Home Assistant Distinguish Between Children and Adults?

Conclusion

While Google Home Assistant doesn’t officially support custom wake phrases, tools like Tasker or Home Assistant provide workarounds for simulating them. For users who need full customization, exploring alternatives like Mycroft AI might be the best option. Until Google introduces this feature, these methods can help personalize your smart home experience.